Arunachal Pradesh: Parnaik calls for inclusive reforms for children with special needs in state

OUR CORRESPONDENT

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik on Monday called for a comprehensive review and mapping of children with special needs (CWSNs) in the state to formulate an impactful and inclusive policy for their welfare.

Inaugurating a two-day event organised to mark the ‘Awareness and Observation of Autism Month’, the governor emphasised the need for intensive sensitisation programmes for all stakeholder departments, especially education, health, social justice, and women and child development. Highlighting the role of frontline workers, he stressed that they must be trained and encouraged to actively reduce stigma and foster a more inclusive, supportive environment for children with special needs and their families, an official communiqué informed. Parnaik suggested the full implementation of inclusive education across all schools in the state through the mandatory appointment of special educators, particularly during the early, formative years of a child’s education. He also proposed the establishment of government-run model special schools.

Further, he recommended that the health and social justice departments collaborate to standardize private centres and integrate them under the welfare programmes provided by the state and central governments.

This, he said, would ensure therapy services are accessible, affordable, and maintained at a high standard for all children who need them.

During the inaugural event, Parnaik and Social Justice Minister Kento Jini distributed teaching and learning kits, aids, and appliances to children with special needs. They also interacted with parents, autistic children, educators, medical specialists, and caretakers from rehabilitation and special centres. Speaking at the occasion, the governor described the event as a stepping stone toward an amplified understanding and celebration of neurodiversity. He referred to autistic children as the “shining stars” of Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting their unique talents, focus, and attention to detail.

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